1959 MGA 1600 Coupe – Monte Carlo Rally

Besley Heritage are proud to offer this historically significant 1959 MGA 1600 Coupe, a genuine period Monte Carlo Rally car with documented provenance and a comprehensive restoration.

Chassis number GHD/72014 was built on 22 July 1959 and supplied new through Parkside Garage of Coventry. It was finished in Chariot Red with black trim, and specified from new with steel disc wheels and period competition seats. Its first owner, Frank ‘Cliff’ Ward, entered the car into the 1960 Monte Carlo Rally, driving solo from The Hague to Monaco in gruelling winter conditions. Finishing 130th overall, it remains one of very few privateer MGAs to have successfully completed the event, a remarkable feat for an individual entrant with limited factory support.

The car remained in the UK and was later the subject of a meticulous nut-and-bolt restoration between 2010 and 2014. The work included a full engine rebuild, chassis refurbishment, and complete restoration of the bodywork, interior, and running gear. Since then, the car has been maintained to a high standard, with more than £20,000 spent on further recommissioning by Valoroso Race & Restoration Services in 2021. This included mechanical upgrades, renewed suspension and brakes, and attention to detail throughout to ensure the car remains highly usable for long-distance events.

Mechanically, the car retains its correct 1,588cc ‘1600’ engine and four-speed gearbox. It benefits from front disc brakes – a key improvement over the earlier 1500 cars – and has been set up with a view to reliability and drivability, while preserving the car’s period charm. Structurally, the car presents superbly, with excellent sills, floors and chassis components, all restored to a high standard.

This is not a replica or homage – it is a genuine Monte Carlo Rally entrant with period documentation, supported by a BMIHT certificate, historic rally plates, photographs and its original green buff logbook. The car is accompanied by a detailed history file and recent maintenance records, along with a FIVA identity card confirming its eligibility for historic events across Europe.

Rarely does a true competition MGA with this level of provenance become available. Equally suited to road tours, historic rallying, or simply as a collector’s piece of British motorsport history, it is ready to be enjoyed and appreciated by its next custodian.

Offered for sale exclusively with Besley Heritage Ltd: £59,995